Primate Ayodele Sounds Alarm Over Impending Bandit Attacks in Multiple States
As Nigeria continues to face significant security challenges, prominent spiritual leader Primate Babatunde Elijah Ayodele has issued a critical warning to residents of Kaduna and nine other states. The leader of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church expressed deep concern about the relentless activities of bandits and insurgents, particularly in northern regions of the country.
Specific Threats Against Governance Structures
In a statement released on Sunday, February 1, and signed by his media aide Osho Oluwatosin, Primate Ayodele revealed alarming intelligence about terrorist intentions. The cleric warned that certain terrorist elements, allegedly supported by both local and international actors, are actively plotting to destabilize governance systems.
Primate Ayodele specifically cautioned: "Governors in the northern part must increase their security so that terrorists will not attempt a coup to remove a governor or shut down government offices. They can even vacate some Emirs from power in the north. They have local and international backup, and this must not be taken lightly."
The spiritual leader emphasized the need for both spiritual and technological solutions to address these threats, noting that successful attacks could trigger international repercussions, particularly from the United States.
Detailed List of Targeted States
Primate Ayodele provided specific information about planned bandit activities across multiple states, warning that serious attacks are being organized for the coming months. The cleric identified ten states that require heightened security vigilance:
- Borno State
- Bauchi State
- Katsina State
- Niger State
- Adamawa State
- Zamfara State
- Ondo State
- Edo State
- Kaduna State
- Taraba State
"Bandits are planning serious attacks in these states," Primate Ayodele stated. "It will be serious, and all military formations must be on alert. Schools and markets too must enhance their security measures. This situation could provoke significant international concern, particularly in February, March, and April."
Broader Context of Nigeria's Security Crisis
This warning comes against the backdrop of Nigeria's ongoing security challenges. Recent investigations have revealed that over 10,000 people have been killed in attacks by gunmen across several states since the current administration took office. Benue State has recorded the highest death toll at 6,896 fatalities, followed by Plateau State with 2,630 deaths.
Primate Ayodele has previously spoken about political protection of terrorists, specifically mentioning notorious terror kingpin Bello Turji. The cleric alleged that some politicians are shielding terrorists, preventing their arrest and complicating security operations.
While acknowledging that the current administration has made some progress in addressing security concerns, Primate Ayodele stressed that more comprehensive measures are needed. The spiritual leader warned that bandits are reportedly planning to form new terrorist networks, indicating that the security situation may deteriorate further without decisive action.
Call for Enhanced Security Measures
The warning from Primate Ayodele serves as a critical alert for both government authorities and residents in the affected states. The cleric emphasized the importance of increased security around government offices, educational institutions, and marketplaces. Residents are advised to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies.
This development highlights the complex nature of Nigeria's security challenges, where spiritual warnings intersect with practical security concerns. As the country approaches the months identified as high-risk periods, security agencies face increased pressure to prevent the planned attacks and protect vulnerable populations across the ten states mentioned in the warning.
